Living with Prolonged Grief Disorder

Living with Prolonged Grief Disorder

Life can hit you sideways sometimes. At 39, I never thought grief would become my constant companion. But here I am, grappling with Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) after losing my mother over 20 years ago.

What is Long-Term Grief Disorder (PGD)?

PGD, also known as complicated grief, is a relatively new mental health condition. Recognized in 2018, it's characterized by an intense and persistent grief that interferes with daily life. While normal grief lessens with time, PGD symptoms last for at least six months in adults and significantly impact a person's ability to function.

A History of Unresolved Grief:

For decades, mental health professionals recognized cases where grief lingered beyond the expected timeframe. PGD's inclusion in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) in 2022 finally gave this condition a formal diagnosis and paved the way for more effective treatment options.

My Healing Journey: A Multi-Faceted Approach

The pain felt endless – a suffocating wave of longing, anger, and a deep sense of emptiness. It started affecting everything – my work, relationships, even the simplest tasks became overwhelming. I knew something had to change.

My Path to Healing:

  • Therapy: Talking to a therapist equipped me with tools to process my grief. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helped me navigate the tangled mess of emotions and develop coping mechanisms.
  • Medication: Medication offered some relief from the emotional rollercoaster, giving me a bit of space to breathe.
  • Nature Exposure: Immersing myself in the sights and sounds of the outdoors brought a sense of calm and grounding.
  • Meditation: Mindfulness exercises helped me observe my thoughts and emotions without judgment.
  • Physical Activity: Exercise releases endorphins, boosting my mood and energy levels.
  • Coda Support Group: Connecting with others who understood the complexities of grief provided a powerful sense of belonging and support.

It's not always easy. There are still bad days, moments when the grief threatens to pull me under. But through this multi-faceted approach, I'm slowly piecing myself back together.

This is my story, and it's still unfolding. If you're struggling with PGD, you're not alone. There is hope, and there are paths to healing. Don't be afraid to reach out for help, explore different approaches, and find what works for you. Remember, even the smallest steps forward are steps in the right direction.

Remember, you are not alone. PGD is a treatable condition. With support and a combination of approaches, you can find your way back to yourself, too.

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